Despite the lapse in federal funding that ended nationwide telehealth flexibilities for Medicare home health and hospice services at midnight, MassHealth announced Friday morning that it will continue to allow telehealth for its members—for now.

The decision comes after a late-night shutdown of the federal government caused the expiration of key provisions that had authorized telehealth use under Medicare. Initially, state officials indicated they would follow federal guidance, which would have effectively ended telehealth options for home health and hospice providers serving MassHealth members.

However, in a clarification to the Home Care Alliance of Massachusetts on Friday, MassHealth said it would maintain existing telehealth flexibilities “for the time being.” The agency cited ongoing congressional negotiations to reopen the government, noting that both current proposals include extensions of telehealth allowances.

If Congress ultimately passes a funding bill that omits those extensions, MassHealth said it would then move to end the flexibility.

The Home Care Alliance said it is seeking additional clarification from MassHealth about how various funding scenarios might affect providers and patients. The group pledged to keep its members updated as discussions continue in both Washington and Boston.